Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

How long does it take for my new car to be active on the insurance policy?

I want to make sure my new car is covered by my insurance policy, but I don't have a lot of time before I pick the car up to deal with insurance. How long will it take for my car to be active on my policy?

avatar
Shannon Martin · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
For a new car purchase, coverage starts as soon as you add the car to your existing policy
Many insurance companies let you use their website or app to make real-time changes to your policy—cutting out the need to call them directly. It will save you time if you can update your
car insurance
policy before you get to the dealership. 
Here is what you’ll need handy to add your new car to your policy:
  • Year, make, and model
  • Effective date (date you will pick up the car)
  • Name and address of finance company (if applicable)
  • List of required coverages
An ID card and
binder letter
can be emailed to you or directly to your dealer.
Keep in mind: Your rate may change with this update. If you are unhappy with your rate, it may be the right time to
shop for quotes
and switch providers.
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings